A small amount of bleeding is to be expected following the operation. If bleeding occurs, place a gauze pad directly over the bleeding socket and apply biting pressure for 30 minutes. If bleeding continues, bite on a moistened black tea bag for thirty minutes. The tannic acid in the black tea helps to form a clot by contracting blood vessels. If bleeding occurs, avoid hot liquids, exercise, and elevate the head. If bleeding persists, call our office immediately. Do not remove any immediate denture unless the bleeding is severe. Expect some oozing around the side of the denture.
Ice Application
Use ice packs (externally) on the cheek near the surgical site. Apply ice for the first 36 hours only. Apply ice 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off while you are awake.
Pain Management
You should begin taking pain medication as soon as you feel the local anesthetic wearing off. For moderate pain, one or two tablets of acetaminophen (Tylenol) may be taken every 6 hours. Ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin) may be taken instead of acetaminophen. Regular strength ibuprofen comes in 200 mg tablets: 2-3 tablets may be taken four times daily, not to exceed 3200mg daily for an adult. Always follow the instructions on the bottle. For severe pain, prescribed medication should be taken as directed. Do not take any of the above medication if you are allergic to them, or have been instructed by your doctor not to take it. Do not drive an automobile or work around machinery. Avoid alcoholic beverages. Pain or discomfort following surgery should subside more and more every day. If pain persists, it may require attention and you should call the office.
Hydration
Drink plenty of fluids. Drink at least six glasses of liquid the first day.
Oral Rinsing
Do not rinse your mouth for the first post-operative day, or while there is bleeding. After the first day, use a warm salt water rinse every 4 hours and following meals to flush out particles of food and debris that may lodge in the operated area (one teaspoon of salt in one cup of warm water). After you have seen your dentist for denture adjustment, take out the denture and rinse 2-3 times a day.
Diet
Restrict your diet to liquids and soft foods that are comfortable for you to eat. As the wounds heal, you will be able to resume your normal diet.